The busy approach to a historic north village could be changed forever by a new housing plan, according to a councillor.
Highland Council’s north planning applications committee yesterday granted permission in principle for 15 houses to be built on the northern edge of Strathpeffer.
But councillors raised concerns about changes which would have to be made on the A834 road between the village and Dingwall.
A road, which serves three existing houses, would be used to provide access to the new homes at Nutwood.
But a number of trees and a beech hedge would have to be cut down to improve visibility where the private road meets the A834.
Dingwall ward member Councillor Margaret Paterson said that the proposals had the potential to “change the entrance to Strathpeffer forever”.
The 30mph limit area on the main road would also have to be extended beyond the junction.
Mrs Paterson said: “I am really disappointed about having to lose the beautiful hedge. That would change the entrance to Strathpeffer forever.”
The application has been made by Cromartie Estate. However, a further application will need to be made detailing the design of the houses before work starts on the ground.
The land is currently zoned for housing under the existing local plan.
It is due to be changed under the upcoming Inner Moray Firth Development plan – which provoked scepticism from councillors.
Councillor Audrey Sinclair, who represents the Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh ward, said: “I am a bit surprised about this application. It’s been floating around for a while but now it’s due to be removed from the local plan and I wonder if that has accelerated the process of it arriving here.”
Planning officer Erica McArthur told the committee that they had “no option” but to to consider the application under existing legislation.
Seven representations were made against the proposal to the council.
Strathpeffer Community Council objected to the plan on grounds that there is no demand for housing in the village and the impact on the “character and visual appearance” of the conservation area.